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Mindfulness-based interventions have proven effective for the transdiagnostic treatment of heterogeneous anxiety disorders. So far, no study has investigated the potential of mindfulness-based treatments when delivered remotely via the Internet. The current trial aims at evaluating the efficacy of a stand-alone, unguided, Internet-based mindfulness treatment program for anxiety. Ninety-one participants diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or anxiety disorder not otherwise specified were randomly assigned to a mindfulness treatment group (MTG) or to an online discussion forum control group (CG). Mindfulness treatment consisted of 96 audio files with instructions for various mindfulness meditation exercises. Primary and secondary outcome measures were assessed at pre-, posttreatment, and at 6-months follow-up. Participants of the MTG showed a larger decrease of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia from pre- to postassessment than participants of the CG (Cohen's d(between)=0.36-0.99). Within effect sizes were large in the MTG (d=0.82-1.58) and small to moderate in the CG (d=0.45-0.76). In contrast to participants of the CG, participants of the MTG also achieved a moderate improvement in their quality of life. The study provided encouraging results for an Internet-based mindfulness protocol in the treatment of primary anxiety disorders. Future replications of these results will show whether Web-based mindfulness meditation can constitute a valid alternative to existing, evidence-based cognitive-behavioural Internet treatments.
This pilot study explores feasibility and outcomes of a newly developed mindfulness-based cognitive attitude training program for health care personnel. The program was designed as an intervention to reduce the negative effects of stress on health care personnel, on both a personal and professional level, as well as to encourage personal well-being and improved management of the caregiver-patient relationship. The study group (n = 52) consisted of individuals from various categories of caregivers within a primary care setting. The study includes pre- and postintervention assessments and a 3-month follow-up assessment of levels of mindfulness (Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale), quality of life (the WHO-5 Well-Being Questionnaire), and perceived stress (two VAS scales). As a group, course participants demonstrated significant positive changes reflected in all assessment scales after completing the course. These positive changes persisted at a 3-month follow-up assessment. The study results indicate the feasibility of this program and a need for continued research with a more powerful study design, possibly supplemented with a qualitative survey.